The Lion of Judah and The Lamb of God

30" x 24" Oil on Canvas by Jessie DeCorsey

“Kingdom” – The Lion of Judah and the Lamb of God

The prophet Isaiah (ISA 11) paints a vision of a Kingdom unlike any the world has ever seen. He speaks of One who would come from the root of Jesse—David’s lineage— a banner of salvation for all people. Isaiah declares that “the world will shake at the force of His word. He will wear righteousness like a belt and truth like an undergarment.”

This is not only prophecy; it is a glimpse into the heart of God’s Kingdom. Isaiah describes a scene so radical it disrupts everything we know about fear, conflict, and survival:

“as the wolf and lamb will live together, the leopard will lie with the baby goat, the calf and yearling will be safe with the lion and a little child will lead them all" (Isaiah 11:6)

Here we see a vision of peace, shalom, and wholeness—a future hope where the reign of Christ brings restoration not only to humanity, but to all creation.

The Lion of Judah and the Lamb of God

Scripture weaves this story from Genesis to Revelation. In Genesis 49:10, Jacob prophesies of the coming ruler from Judah’s line, the Lion of Judah, who would hold all power and authority. Centuries later, John in Revelation 5 unveils the mystery: the Lion of Judah has overcome, yet He appears as a Lamb who was slain.

The word here for "overcome" means to have victory, prevailed, conquered. Interestingly it comes from the word "nike" (victory). This is His victory, the lamb that has overcome the world.

This is the paradox at the very center of the Kingdom: the Lion who reigns as the Lamb.

The Story Behind the Painting

My painting “Kingdom” carries this story of the One who came as the banner of salvation, the fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy, the Lion of Judah and the Lamb of God.

It is a visual meditation on the Kingdom of God that will never end—a Kingdom of peace, justice, and eternal victory.

During Holy Week and Easter, I pray that this painting reminds us not only of Christ’s sacrifice, but also of His triumph. He is the King who reigns forever, the Lamb who was slain, and the Lion who has overcome.

Amen.